Ezekiel 1:25

And there was a voice from the firmament that [was] over their heads, when they stood, [and] had let down their wings.

And there was a voice {H6963} from the firmament {H7549} that was over their heads {H7218}, when they stood {H5975}, and had let down {H7503} their wings {H3671}.

Whenever there was a sound from above the dome over their heads, they stopped and lowered their wings.

And there came a voice from above the expanse over their heads as they stood still with their wings lowered.

And there was a voice above the firmament that was over their heads: when they stood, they let down their wings.

Commentary

Context

Ezekiel 1:25 is part of the prophet Ezekiel's foundational vision, which describes the "likeness of the glory of the LORD." This profound encounter, detailed in the first chapter, introduces the four living creatures (often identified as cherubim), their intricate wheels, and the vast, crystal-like firmament stretched above their heads. Verse 25 captures a pivotal moment: after the creatures have moved and then come to a halt, standing still and reverently lowering their wings, a powerful voice emanates from the expanse above them. This sets the stage for the revelation of God's throne and His glory.

Key Themes

  • Divine Authority and Communication: The "voice from the firmament" underscores God's supreme authority and His active engagement with His creation and His prophet. It signifies that divine revelation is imminent and originates from a place of ultimate power and transcendence.
  • Reverence and Submission: The creatures' action of standing and letting down their wings is a powerful symbol of reverence, submission, and readiness to listen. In the presence of the divine, all creation is called to a posture of humility and attention, reminiscent of being still before the Lord.
  • Order in Divine Presence: Even within a vision that describes immense power and movement, there is an underlying order. The creatures pause, demonstrating discipline and obedience, before the divine voice speaks. This suggests that God's communication often requires a quieted spirit and focused attention.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "firmament" is raqia' (Χ¨ΦΈΧ§Φ΄Χ™Χ’Φ·), which literally means "an expanse" or something "beaten out" or "hammered into a thin plate." In this context, it depicts a solid, vast, and brilliant platform or dome above the creatures, from which the divine voice originates. The "voice" (qol, Χ§Χ•ΦΉΧœ) implies an audible, distinct sound, indicating clear communication from God's presence, rather than a mere impression or thought.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 1:25 offers valuable lessons for believers today. It highlights the importance of creating space and stillness in our lives to hear God's voice. Just as the living creatures paused and submitted, we too are called to quiet our spirits and humble ourselves before the Lord to receive His guidance and truth. Recognizing the divine authority behind God's Word should inspire deep reverence and a readiness to obey. This verse reminds us that God is actively speaking, and our role is to be attentive and receptive, just as the prophet Ezekiel was prepared to receive the profound messages that followed this initial encounter with the glory of the Lord.

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Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 1:22

    And the likeness of the firmament upon the heads of the living creature [was] as the colour of the terrible crystal, stretched forth over their heads above.
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